Boy who lost battle to brain-eating amoeba laid to rest

Zachary Reyna, 12, was active in sports before contracting the parasite.
(Photo: Courtesy of Reyna family)

(CNN) -- People came from all over Southwest Florida to Labelle Middle School to say goodbye to Zachary Reyna.

"It's awesome and amazing how people came together to support him," a relative said.

Zac lost his battle against an amoeba, introduced into his system by water in a ditch. Through social media, his fight for life touched people nationwide. His family prayed that he's become the fourth person to survive amoeba.

The number of four became inspiration while Zac lived, and solace after he died.

"It's amazing that so many people have a tender place in their hearts for such suffering. It touches all of us and this family emotionally."

It is estimated more than one thousand people attended the funeral, and afterward, some joined the procession to Fort Denaud Cemetery, where Zac Reyna was buried.

"He was a good kid, a great kid really. So much fun, into athletics and sports. And, he's gone now. But he will not be forgotten, never," said a cousin of Zac's mother.